St. Louis County

Kick off the summer at this free celebration featuring barbecue food trucks, games and entertainment for kids and live music.

Happening on Central Avenue in Clayton, the Summer Kickoff includes music by Queens Boulevard, kids' activities, including a hula hooper, balloon artist, fire performer and cowboy, and food trucks featuring barbecue fare.

5-9 p.m. along Central Avenue in Clayton. More information: claytonmo.gov

Don't miss the 48th annual Potpourri event at John Burroughs School, one of the oldest and largest garage sales in the St. Louis area. Free admission and parking.

The school's field house will be filled with more than 28,000 square feet of bargains: furniture, clothings, toys, books, small electronics, household items and much more. The sale is open to all.

7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at John Burroughs School in Ladue.

More information: jburroughs.org

Get kids moving and learning and find out about ways your whole family can have fun and be healthier at this free family event at your local branch of the Gateway Region YMCA.

At Healthy Kids Day, happening at YMCA branches across the St. Louis metro area, you can learn about the Y's programs for kids and adults, find out about summer camp opportunities, take part in games like kickball, take sampler classes, arts and crafts, kid-friendly yoga, free health screenings and lots more. Activities vary depending on the branch. Activities are free and open to the public.

Celebrate Mother's Day a bit early at this Mother-Daughter Tea Party! You and your special little lady (or ladies) will enjoy tea and pastries and you'll each paint a ceramic tea cup and saucer planter to take home, complete with a package of flower seeds.

10 to 11:30 a.m. at Once Upon a Bash in Maplewood. Cost is $20 per person. 

For more information and to sign up: onceuponabash.com

Your whole family will love this sweet opportunity to have lots of fun while helping a good cause. Enjoy unlimited ice cream and treats from a variety of vendors while exploring The Magic House while it's closed to the public.

Enjoy complimentary treats from Ben & Jerry's, Oberweis, Andy's Frozen Custard, Ices Plain & Fancy, The Fountain on Locust, Vess, Serendipity, Strange Donuts, Scoops & More and Nothing Bundt Cakes. There will be also be face painting and other children's activities, and the entire Magic House to explore!

Your kids can enjoy a story time, fun activities and a visit from everyone's favorite big red dog, Clifford! Don't forget your camera!

This event is part of Children's Book Week at the St. Louis County Library. Free.

Clifford the Big Red Dog will appear:

Monday, May 2 at 6 p.m. at Headquarters Branch

Wednesday, May 4 at 10 a.m. at Grant's View Branch

Friday, May 6 at 10 a.m. at Grand Glaize Branch

Saturday, May 7 at 10 a.m. at Rock Road Branch

Reservations are not required.

Egg. Larva. Pupa. Butterfly. That's magic! The Fishin' Magicians make learning this basic science fun for all ages using magic, puppets and humor.

Join the adventure with them and Pipevine, the caterpillar, as they help kids understand the importance of butterflies and caterpillars in ecosystems. 

7 to 9 p.m. Free, but reservations are required by the day of the event. At Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center in Kirkwood. For reservations call 314-301-1500.